With many of us cooped us inside practicing social distancing, sewing has been the one constant in all of our lives. Fortunately, it's one of those do-at-home hobbies that is a great way to keep busy regardless of your level of expertise!

If you're new here, welcome! This "How to Sew a Sleep Mask" sewing tutorial is part of our weekly Sew Together Tuesday series hosted by our National Educator Teresa Coates. Each week she walks our viewers through a sewing project from start to finish, and past tutorials have included stuffed animals, throw blankets and more.

How to sew a sleep mask

Using the mask pattern, cut out one of each fabric (two if using the same fabric for both sides). Transfer all markings.

Cut a strap: one 1 ½” x 14-16” piece of Cuddle®, width-wise OR a 14-16" piece of ½” wide elastic (cut to fit) OR 4” and 14” lengths of ½” wide elastic.

Cuddle® strap: fold in thirds lengthwise, overlapping at center back, and zig zag in place. Single elastic strap: no additional stepsTwo elastic straps: sew 2” length of Velcro to end of each elastic cut, loop (soft) part on the longer strap

Use markings at sides of one mask piece to place straps and pin in place. Baste in place.

Pin mask pieces, right sides together, leaving the area marked for the gap open. Make sure strap(s) are tucked inside.

Michael Nystrom is the Inbound Digital Content Manager at Shannon Fabrics. He is a two-time IRONMAN triathlon finisher, USC Trojan and self-proclaimed breakfast burrito connoisseur. When not swimming, cycling or running (or writing about all things fabric), he’s out catching some waves or chasing his dog, Dingo.